Thesis Work - Battery cell models for control of fast charging i Göteborg

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars

Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. All thesis projects are arranged in business critical areas and therefore you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one! 

Background
Fast charging is one of the most important attributes for Battery Electrified Vehicles (BEVs), where there is constant push to increase charging power and reduce the charging times. The potential risk for the battery cells is, however, significant where a too aggressive fast charging strategy could cause severe lithium plating on the surface of the cell anode with the consequence of rapid cell ageing or even safety issues. There is therefore a big need of controlling and optimizing fast charging in way where the customer experiences the shortest possible charging time without risking an increased cell degradation. 

The goal of this thesis project is to develop/evaluate models suitable for prediction on anode surface potential, the key factor for lithium plating, where consideration is taken to application of the model in battery management systems. 

Scope
As Master thesis student you will be working on development of battery cell models with the focus on simulation of the anode surface potential. The project will build upon the work of the cell CAE team where there is experience of a range of models from equivalent circuit models to the comprehensive P2D Doyle-Fuller-Newman model. You will also have the opportunity to cooperate with other colleagues within the traction battery ARTs. You will be part of a highly motivated team where there is strong interest in creating new insights.

The project will focus on identification of a model which is able to capture enough of the cell physics to simulate the anode surface potential at the same time as the computational cost does not become unnecessary high. The likely candidate is an equivalent circuit network or similar combined with a physics-based thinking. More comprehensive models as well as state of the art commercial models will be used for comparison. A cornerstone for development of these models is testing and extraction of model parameters from the test results and an important part of the project will be to determine suitable tests and proposal of methods for handling of the test data.

The project will include:
•    Development/evaluation of models.
•    Analysis of test data for model parameterization.
•    Evaluation of the computational cost of the models.

What you’ll bring
We are looking for motivated students pursuing a Master of Science degree in chemistry, physics, applied mathematics or similar, to qualify. A genuine interest and curiosity in the subject matter and excellent analytical and communication skills, both oral and written English, are needed. The ideal candidate has a background in analytical work preferably including modelling of electro-chemistry. Further, you have a big interest in programming and python in particular.

Duration
•    The duration of the Thesis is 20 weeks.
•    The Thesis starts in Jan 2024 or earlier if possible.
•    30 ECTS (academic credits) if in agreement with your Thesis Advisor in University. 
•    This thesis is suitable for 1- 2 students.
 

Be part of the change - apply today! 

We’d love to receive and review your application. Selection will be ongoing during the application period, so do not hesitate to send in your application. Attach your CV and personal letter stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials.
 
Apply as soon as possible but no later than 2023-11-01

Please note that applications via email will not be accepted.

If you want more information about the project or simply learn a bit more about the team, please reach out to:

Manager, Anette Garnemark at anette.garnemark@volvocars.com
Supervisors, Salma Belkhadim at salma.belkhadim@volvocars.com, Yidan Gao at yidan.gao@volvocars.com

We are Volvo Cars

Volvo Cars is a company on a mission to bring traditional car manufacturing into a connected, sustainable and smart future. Since 1927, we've been known for our commitment to safety and for creating innovative cars that make life less complicated. In 2010, we decided to radically redefine our business, resulting in a totally new generation of cars and technology, as well as steady growth and record sales - and we're only getting started. By 2025, we aim to have yearly sales of 1.2 million cars, 50% of which will be electric vehicles and sold directly to customers through digital channels. We also intend to strengthen our position as a modern, progressive employer committed to diversity and gender and racial equality. We believe in the power of people. Join us and be part of Volvo Cars' transformation.